1. THE RECEPTION VENUE
Many summer months are usually very popular for receptions, so once a venue has been decided book well in advance. Many venues offer a complete wedding package including wedding cake, flowers, toastmaster and catering. Ask for sample menus and for available times and dates (some venues cater for more than one wedding per day). Obtain at least three estimates.

2. PHOTOGRAPHER AND VIDEO-MAKER
Photographers offer different styles, and a variety of albums to hold your photographs. Ask to see a presentation of their work, and for their prices, including charges for extra sets of prints or copies of the video tape. Obtain three estimates. Make sure that if you want photographs taken in a place of worship, that permission is given by the priest or minister in charge.

3. THE WEDDING CAR - (Our Bentley is available for viewing before booking if required)
Many wedding car companies have more than one car to hire. Ask to be sent brochures or photographs, and visit the company. Some companies have a flagship car which may be booked for more than one wedding per day. Make sure they can guarantee that their car will arrive on time. Consider the size and type of dress when choosing your car. Ask for any special colour schemes you wish to have inside the car. Drive the route the day before to make sure there are no traffic delays.

4. WEDDING INVITATIONS LIST
Only one invitation is needed for a married couple or family.

5. CATERING AND FOOD AT THE RECEPTION
Some people may dislike particular food, and some might be vegetarians. Make a note of any special dietary requirements.

6. YOUR ORDER OF SERVICE STATIONARY
Once the hymns and orders have been decided you need to have the order of service stationary printed.

7. OTHER STATIONARY
You may need to send or give out pieces of wedding cake, named matchboxes or printed napkin rings. These need ordering at least six weeks before the wedding.

8. THE WEDDING DRESS
Remember that the bride's dress is one of the most important aspects of the wedding for her. Nine months before the wedding you should start looking in local bridal shops and in wedding magazines. When buying the dress brides to be should take along somebody whose judgement they can trust, consider the other accessories and the colour of the bridesmaid's dresses. There are many shops that sell and hire out wedding dresses, and there are dressmakers who can make one. When choosing the dress it is ideal time to choose shoes, veil, underwear and other accessories.

9. HAIR AND BEAUTY
Book appointments well in advance of the wedding. When choosing their harstyles brides to be should take their headdress to the hairdresser to decide on the exact style. It is often better to consult the hairdresser and beautician at the same time. Make sure any new creams will not affect the skin.

10. THE FLOWERS
Flowers are one of many attractive features of the ceremony. They are used in church, for the brides bouquet and for the reception. Many places of worship have more than one ceremony on the same day, and it is possible to come to an arrangement with other couples or the vicar to share the expense of flowers in the church. Many florists offer a complete colour co-ordinated range of flowers for the bride, church and reception. It is traditional for the bridegroom to present both his and her mother and mother-in-law with a bouquet during the speech or the best man's.

11. THE ENTERTAINMENT AT THE RECEPTION
Discos are the most popular, offering a wide range of music. Talk with the DJ several weeks before the date. If you are stuck for choice, consult a local agency, or EFX who hold a list of useful names.